2026 World Cruise
January 6 - May 27, 2026
Category: John & Sandy
Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Paradise Adventure
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Bora Bora, French Polynesia, in the South Pacific Ocean.
BORA BORA, (SOCIETY ISLANDS), FRENCH POLYNESIA
The Dream Island That Defies Imagination
If you’ve ever imagined your perfect island escape, chances are it resembles something like this: seas the color of liquid sapphire, beaches so white they shimmer beneath the sun, and charming thatched‑roof bungalows perched over calm, crystalline water. Gentle palm trees lean toward the sea as if drawn by the breeze itself, and beneath the surface, schools of brilliant fish dart among coral gardens bursting with life. Yet even with all these postcard‑worthy elements in mind, the first real glimpse of Bora Bora somehow surpasses anything the imagination can conjure.
This tiny tropical jewel—measuring less than 12 square miles, tucked into the heart of the South Pacific—has long claimed its place at the very top of global travel wish lists. For decades, it has held a reputation as the ultimate honeymoon sanctuary, and understandably so; the sunsets alone, drenched in molten gold and watercolor pink, seem crafted specifically for romantic reverie. But Bora Bora offers far more than strolling hand‑in‑hand beneath a sky turning to stardust.
Everywhere you turn, you’re enveloped by the lagoon’s kaleidoscopic hues—turquoise, teal, jade, and deep ultramarine blending together as an artist’s palette spilled across the horizon. And when your eyes have fully soaked in its beauty, adventure patiently waits just below the surface. Underwater scooters glide past coral formations like something out of a futuristic dream, and aqua‑safari excursions invite you to walk along the ocean floor as tropical fish swirl around you in gentle curiosity.
In Bora Bora, serenity and exhilaration coexist effortlessly. It’s a place where nature dazzles at every turn, where time slows, and where even the most vivid daydreams feel modest compared to the real thing.
Today’s Excursion – Off-Road Island Adventure
We discovered Bora Bora, the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’, in an exciting new way during this exhilarating off-road island adventure. In addition to breathtaking panoramic vistas, this 4X4 trip features remnants of early Polynesian life and relics of the World War II presence of American forces.
World War II Cannons
Depart the pier with your driver/guide and follow along a trail to a pair of World War II cannons left by the U.S. military. Along the way, the guide elaborates on the presence of American forces on Bora Bora during World War II.
Faanui Valley, Tropical Flora and Fauna
Next, drive through the Faanui Valley to see the lush tropical nature of the island’s interior. Photo stops en route allow you to take in spectacular vistas and learn about local customs, flora, and fauna.
Fitii District, Pahonu Hill, Blue Lagoon
This scenic journey continues into the northern part of the island and the district of Fitii in the east. Heading toward the south side, the drive takes you past coastal hotels and up Pahonu Hill. Along the way, your guide points out sights of interest and stops are made for photo opportunities of the spectacular lagoon.
Tonights dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
HOW DO YOU LIKE ME SO FAR?
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER ROSS BENNETT
A star on SiriusXM’s Blue Collar Comedy Channel, Ross also headlines the wildly popular Dry Bar Comedy special Comedy for the Rest of Us, with more than 10 million views.
Known for his clever writing and expressive delivery, Ross blends sharp observations with relatable stories from everyday life.
His standout routines draw on growing up as a Baby Boomer raised by Greatest Generation parents in a small town in western New York—what he affectionately calls “New York Country.”
Bora Bora – French Ploynesia Bucket List Preview
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Rangiroa to Bora Bora, French Polynesia.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Beyond the Postcard: The Real Bora Bora”.
Join Chris for an exploration of the history, culture, and cuisine of Bora Bora, along with destination insights to fully immerse yourself in this port of call.
12:15 Boat Building Competition Pool Deck
The boats are ready, and the moment of truth has arrived! Join us as the judging begins—who will sail away with the win?
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Lowell Fox: “Lowell’s Favorites-The Best of the Rest”.
Some of the best sketches from Tim Conway & Harvey Korman, Abbot & Costello, George Carlin, George Burns & Gracie Allen, Sid Caesar, and Jonathan Winters.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with John G. Thomas: “Classic Science Fiction movies”.
Made from the 1950s to the 1960s, featured angry Martians, radioactive insects, and 50-foot-tall women. We’ll look at some of the very best.
6:30 Silver Dawn Choir performance.
Come and support your fellow guests of the Silver Dawn Choir as they present a short selection of the music they have been working on.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
ACOUSTICALLY SAID
(THERE’S MORE TO THE STORY…”)
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER STEPHANI PARKER
This intimate one-woman show is completely musically produced by Stephani Parker.
In contrast to the Whitney Houston show, Stephani wanted to showcase her music production skills as well as her live performance.
From Lady Gaga and Tina Turner to Elvis Presley, this incredible show has something for everyone!
RANGIROVA, FRENCH POLYNESIA
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Fakarava to Rangiroa, French Polynesia/
RANGIROA, FRENCH POLYNESIA
French Polynesia’s Immense Sky and Lagoon Paradise
Rangiroa is French Polynesia’s largest atoll.
More than 400 motu (islets) enclose the lagoon, which is so wide and long that one cannot see the southern row of motu from the two main islets in the north – hence the local name Rangiroa, meaning wide or long sky, sometimes taken as ‘immense sky’.
There are several passes from the ocean into the lagoon, and the two main villages of Avatoru and Tiputa are located next to the passes of the same names.
Drift diving and snorkeling the incoming tides, looking for sharks and manta rays at these passes, is one of Rangiroa’s main tourist draws.
Government jobs, ecotourism, and pearl farming are the main sources of income on the atoll.
The lagoon’s calm turquoise waters, rich marine underwater world, and relaxed atmosphere attract visitors year-round to the many local guesthouses and a few hotels.
Both Avatoru and Tiputa also feature schools for the other Tuamotu Islands, which have no higher education possibilities.
One of Rangiroa’s most unusual attractions is the white and rose wine produced on the islet immediately west of Avatoru – the wine has won several awards.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
ROCK THE BOAT
DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY
Join the Silversea singers and dancers and our show band as they take you through a collection of electric party hits to dance the night away.
Fakarava Atoll: A Remote Gem in French Polynesia
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Fakarava, French Polynesia.
FAKARAVA, FRENCH POLYNESIA
A UNESCO Biosphere Atoll of Reefs, Passes, and Polynesian History.
Fakarava is oblong-shaped and has an almost continuous string of reef and motu stretching for 25 miles on its eastern edge.
It’s the second largest of the Tuamotu atolls, located 280 miles northeast of Tahiti and 75 miles southeast of Rangiroa.
It’s renowned for the drift diving in its two passes – Garuae (also spelled Ngarue) in the north near the main town of Rotoava (and the airport) and Tamakohua Pass, 30 miles across the lagoon in the south.
The tiny village of Tetamanu, situated by the southern pass, was once the capital of the Tuamotus and houses the first church in the archipelago, built in 1874.
In 2006, the entire atoll was deemed a UNESCO biosphere reserve; to preserve the lagoon, no overwater bungalows have been built in it.
Fakarava was “discovered” by Russian explorer Fabian Gottlieb Von Bellingshausen in 1820; some 20 years later, missionaries arrived, in the guise of fanatical Catholic priest Honore Laval, and began building churches.
Fakarava, also historically known as Havaiki-te-araro, Havai’i, or Farea, is a breathtaking coral atoll in the western Tuamotu Archipelago of French Polynesia. Renowned for its vast lagoon and pristine reefs, Fakarava holds the distinction of being the second-largest atoll in the Tuamotus, making it a standout destination for nature lovers and divers alike.
Where Is Fakarava Located?
Fakarava lies in the western Tuamotu Islands, a remote chain of coral atolls in the South Pacific Ocean. Its nearest neighbor is Toau Atoll, situated approximately 9 miles to the northwest. This isolation has helped preserve Fakarava’s exceptional marine biodiversity and tranquil atmosphere.
Why Fakarava Is Special
- Size & Scale: As one of the largest Tuamotu atolls, Fakarava features an expansive lagoon surrounded by coral reefs.
- Marine Biodiversity: The atoll is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, celebrated for its rich underwater ecosystems.
- Cultural Heritage: Its multiple traditional names reflect deep Polynesian history and cultural significance.
- Remote Beauty: Limited development keeps the environment pristine and authentic.
A Must-Visit Atoll in the Tuamotus
Whether you’re researching French Polynesia’s atolls, planning a diving adventure in the Tuamotu Archipelago, or exploring rem
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
BE A STAR
SILVERSEA VOCALIST BEATRICE BERDINI
“Be a Star” is a vibrant and captivating show that takes the audience on an engaging musical journey. From the emotions of Italian music to the passionate rhythms of Latin music, through the energy of rock, the magic of musicals, and the timeless hits of ’70s and ’80s disco.
A show designed to involve everyone… because, for one night at least, everyone can be a star.
Sailing between the French Polynesian Islands
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Atuona, Hiva Oa, to Fakarava, French Polynesia.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Life on the Reef: Fakarava’s Delicate Balance”.
An exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Fakarava, alongside some destination knowledge to fully immerse yourself in this port of call.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Lowell Fox: “Laurel & Hardy – Two Minds without a single thought”.
Their careers in silent movies and their successful transition into “talkies.” The differences between their on and off-screen personalities.
3:00 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Between Pass and Lagoon: The Rhythm of Life on Rangiroa”.
An exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Rangiroa.
Dinner was at above the Pool Deck.
REMEMBERING WHITNEY
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER STEPHANI PARKER
Born and raised in Michael Jackson’s hometown of Gary, Indiana, Stephani grew up singing and performing for the majority of her childhood.
After studying voice at Indiana University Bloomington, Stephani won the 2005 Chicago Idol Competition, which included a prize of a single produced by Kanye West.
Stephani has performed with or worked with countless celebrities, including Michael Jackson, Tyler Perry, Chaka Khan, and Jamie Foxx.
Atuona, cradle of the culture of the Marquesas Islands
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Atonia – Hiva Oa, French Polynesia
ATUONA – HIVA OA, FRENCH POLYNESIA
The Hidden Jewel of the Marquesas Islands
The largest of the southern Marquesan islands, Hiva Oa holds a distinguished place in local tradition.
Known in ancestral mythology as the master pillar or final post of the “Great House” that symbolizes the entire Marquesan archipelago,
Hiva Oa has long stood in friendly rivalry with its northern counterpart, Nuku Hiva.
Seen from above, the island resembles a seahorse, its rugged spine formed by a dramatic mountain range stretching from the southwest to the northeast.
The principal summits—Mount Temetiu and Mount Feani—rise sharply to create a formidable natural rampart surrounding the settlement of Atuona.
Atuona, a quiet and welcoming port nestled at the far end of Taaoa Bay—historically referred to as Traitors Bay—was once a remote and little‑known village. Today, however, it is renowned worldwide as the final home of two iconic figures: the celebrated painter Paul Gauguin and the beloved Belgian singer Jacques Brel. Their graves rest on the hillside of the Calvary Cemetery, overlooking the vast sweep of the bay. These simple yet evocative burial sites have become places of pilgrimage, drawing visitors moved by the artists’ lives, legacies, and deep emotional connection to the island.
Atuona – Hiva Oa, Marquesas Island, French Polynesia.
In the village, the Gauguin Museum displays items related to the painter’s stay there at the beginning of the century and has copies of his works.
Mave Mai Traditional Welcome
Atuona, a peaceful little port at the head of Taaoa Bay, also known as Traitors Bay, has emerged from obscurity as the last resting place of Paul Gauguin and the singer Jacques Brel. The tombs of these famous personalities are on the side of the Calvary cemetery, overlooking the bay, and are places of great pilgrimage. Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Traditional Welcome, Shuttle Transfer, Atuona Village, Paul Gaugin Museum, Centre Jacques Brel, Calvary Cemetery
Traditional Welcome
The Polynesian people will welcome you to their island with traditional Marquesian seashells, leis, and joy of living. You will be invited to taste local fruits, laughter, and good spirits. Marquesians are proud of their islands and are always happy to share their way of life with visitors. Their easygoing approach to life is expressed mostly through their passion for dancing and music, and they will greet you with the Mave Mai traditional welcome, which includes traditional dance, polyphonic group singing, and the percussive rhythms of the traditional pahu (drum). The artists or craftsmen (tuhuna) were said to possess an extremely high level of creative power because they brought life to inert materials. You will have the opportunity to see the local craftsmen at work while they demonstrate their skills right in front of your eyes.
Atuona Village, Paul Gauguin Museum, Centre Jacques Brel
Shuttles transferred us to the small village of Atuona, where we visited the Paul Gauguin Museum. This museum pays tribute to the famous painter by displaying mementos and items from his time on the island of Hiva Oa, along with copies of his works. Atuona was Paul Gauguin’s home for the last three years of his life. Outside the museum halls is the ‘House of Pleasure’ where Gauguin lived and which has been rebuilt with copies of the carved wood panels and the lintel bearing this inscription. Behind the museum, you will find a big aircraft hangar. In the centre is Jacques Brel’s plane, Jojo; faded posters tracing the musician’s life adorn the walls, and his music plays dreamily over the sound system.
COMEDY FOR THE REST OF US
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER ROSS BENNETT
Ross Bennett is a veteran stand-up comedian (and yes—also a U.S. military veteran) whose smart, clean comedy has delighted audiences for over 25 years.
After Ross appeared on The Late Show, the applause kept building until Dave Letterman summed it up with a single word: “Wow!”
Dinner was on the Pool Deck 11 with the theme of “American Diner”.
Before Moby-Dick, Herman Melville Disappeared on This Pacific Island
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Nuka Hiva in the Marquesas Islands.
NUKU HIVA, FRENCH POLYNESIA
The Hidden Jewel of the Marquesas Islands.
Think of French Polynesia, and you are automatically transported to the white sands of Tahiti, the blue seas of Bora Bora, or, at the very least, the iconic statues of Easter Island.
Now, imagine a place that is home to that majestic trinity, yet free of crowds and full of island authenticity that is rare in these global times. You have just imagined Nuku Hiva.
The island is the second-largest after Tahiti in the archipelago, but it has yet to be discovered by tourists. As part of the Marquesas Islands, Nuku Hiva is technically French, but don’t expect to find any blue-and-white striped shirts here! In fact, even though French is the “official” language of the island, a sing-song dialect of Tahitian mixed with Marquesan is more widely spoken. The younger generations also speak English.
Undeniably, Nuku Hiva has been blessed by the gods. With towering mountains, eight magnificent harbors, and one of the world’s highest waterfalls, Nuku Hiva is rich with Mother Nature’s jewels. The island could lay claim to many claims to fame, such as its deep, unpolluted waters, its lush forests bursting with vitality, and its fascinating array of archaeological sites, including tikis (sacred statues) and pae pae (stone platforms that formed the foundations of homes).
Yet for those in the know, the island’s primary claim to fame is that author Herman Melville deserted his ship to live among the island’s natives, and that his books Typee and Omoo were inspired by his experiences on Nuku Hiva.
Today’s Excursion – Taipivai Valley Scenic Drive
We discovered the beauty of Nuku Hiva and followed the trails of adventurer and novelist, Herman Melville, on this half-day exploration of the island.
Muake Hill, Toovii Plateau, Photo Stops, Beautiful Views
After tendering ashore, board the 4×4 vehicle for a rugged trip into the island’s interior. The first stop is at the 2,834-foot (864-metre) Muake Hill, from where you can enjoy the best view of the bay. Continue driving up a steep trail, over the high Toovii Plateau, and through lush vegetation toward the Taipivai Valley. Along the way, photo stops at various viewpoints provide breathtaking vistas of the coastline, bays, and valleys. Pausing every so often, the guide tells you about the area’s rich flora and fauna.
Taipivai Valley & Taipivai Village
The Taipivai Valley was made famous by the American writer, Herman Melville (1819-1891), who deserted his ship and hid in the valley. Captured by the natives, he spent several weeks here and learned during this time about their way of life. His novel Typee is based on this experience. Your tour takes you through the small village of Taipivai, where people primarily engage in agriculture. From here, proceed to the beach area, from where you can enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.
Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Marquesas
Travel back to Taiohae and visit the Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Marquesas. The church was built with different-coloured stones from the six Marquesas Islands, and magnificently carved sculptures adorn the interior.
ECHOES OF NUKU HIVA: A MARQUESAN RHAPSODY
LOCAL FOLKLORE PERFORMANCE
Experience the vibrant spirit of Nuku Hiva in an electrifying showcase featuring a dynamic ensemble of four talented performers, seamlessly blending traditional Marquesan dance and live music.
We immersed ourselves in the captivating world of Marquesan tradition, where every step and note tells a story of ancient rituals and island heritage.
We enjoyed an unforgettable journey as we celebrated the essence of Nuku Hiva through the harmonious combination of music and dance, leaving us enchanted by the allure of Polynesian culture.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
Sailing the South Pacific to Nuka Hiva, Margueses Islands
Where in the World Are We?
10:15 Enrichment Lecture with Lowell Fox: “Danny Kaye – Renaissance Man”.
His early start in nightclubs and Broadway, his marriage partnership with Sylvia Fine Kaye, who wrote most of Kaye’s material. Also included are his successes in films.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with George Losey Jr: “The Future of our Coral Reefs”.
Weekly news presents the discovery of losses to our coral
reefs and some dire predictions of their imminent loss. Take a deep dive into the causes of some of the challenges faced by coral reefs.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with John G. Thomas: “The Making of 2001: A Space Odyssey”.
Some called it a visual masterpiece while others said it was boring. Made over 60 years ago, the greatest filmmakers rate it the best film ever made.
Dinner was at the Pool Bar.
ICONIC RHAPSODY
BILLY JOEL, ELTON JOHN, FREDDIE MERCURY
GREATEST HITS
Hits from three of the world’s greatest performers: Billy Joel, Elton John, and Freddie Mercury.
These performers are known and loved all over the world, and their incredible music has endured for many years, making them truly iconic.
We present a selection of the very best of these songs, performed by the Silver Dawn singers, dancers, and live band.
Sailing the South Pacific
Where in the world Are We?
We are sailing from Pitcarin Island to Nuka Hiva.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Hiva Oa: Pacific Legends and Artistic Legacies”.
Join Chris for an exploration into the history, culture and cuisine of Atuona, alongside some destination knowledge to fully immerse yourself in this port of call.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Lowell Fox: “Lucille Ball – We Love Lucy”.
Your favorite I Love Lucy episodes. Her early life and the 60 films she made pre-I Love Lucy. How Lucy and Desi met, her success in radio, the formation of Desilu Studios, and how I Love Lucy was created.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with John G. Thomas: “Comedies”.
The best movie comedies have at least one great scene that has become an outrageously laughable classic. We’ll look back at the best ones of all.
Dinner was in The Altnatide Restaurant.
MUSICAL MEMORIES
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH CRUISE DIRECTOR MOSS
Join your Cruise Director, Moss Hills, and the Silver Dawn Band as they perform a mix of music to stir up some memories.
With songs from Dire Straits, James Brown, Santana, Billy Joel, and more. Join us for an evening of really great music with Moss and the Silver Dawn Band.
A fun night not to be missed!
Pitcarin Island of Mutiny on the Bounty fame!
Where in the World Are We?
We are in the Pitcairn Island of Mutiny on the Bounty Fame.
10:15 Pitcairn Island: A Guided Pictorial Presentation with local Pitcairn Islander Simon Young
This is a wonderful pictorial overview of Pitcairn Island, with high-definition photographs, followed by a 15-minute question-and-answer opportunity.
11:00 Pitcairn Island Curio and Craft Market: Approximately 20 Pitcairn Island families will display their curios and crafts for sale
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Lowell Fox: “Carol Burnett – The Queen of Sketch Comedy Part 2”.
The dynamic success of The Carol Burnett Show, background information of her co-stars: Tim Conway, Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence, and Lyle Waggoner, and some of her show’s most hilarious sketches.
Dinner was in the Atlantide Restaurant
LADO A LADO
SIDE BY SIDE
HEADLINE ENTERTAINERS DUO SIQUEIRA LIMA
Duo Siqueira Lima is one of the world’s most prestigious guitar ensembles today, having won the “Profissionais da Música Awards” in Brazil and the “International Brazilian Press Awards” in the United States.
They are recognized for their technical and interpretative virtuosity, perfect engagement, and daring, original arrangements for two guitars.